What Is an IEP?

An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is a legally binding document created for eligible children with disabilities under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). For most children with Down syndrome, the IEP becomes the central document guiding their educational experience from age 3 through age 21.

Think of the IEP as a contract between your family and the school: it outlines your child's present levels of performance, annual goals, the services they will receive, and how their progress will be measured. As a parent, you are a full and equal member of the IEP team — not a passive recipient of the school's decisions.

Key Components of an IEP

  • Present Levels of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance (PLAAFP): A baseline description of where your child currently is — academically, socially, behaviorally, and functionally
  • Annual Goals: Measurable objectives your child should reasonably achieve within 12 months
  • Special Education and Related Services: Speech therapy, OT, PT, reading support, paraprofessional assistance, and more
  • Least Restrictive Environment (LRE): The law requires children with disabilities be educated alongside their non-disabled peers to the maximum extent appropriate
  • Accommodations and Modifications: Changes to how material is presented or assessed (extended time, visual supports, reduced assignments)
  • Transition Planning: From age 16 (sometimes earlier), the IEP must address post-secondary goals and preparation for adult life

Preparing for an IEP Meeting

Walking into an IEP meeting well-prepared makes a significant difference. Here's how:

  1. Review the previous IEP: Know which goals were met, partially met, or not met — and ask why.
  2. Collect your own observations: Write down what your child can do at home, what motivates them, and what challenges you've noticed.
  3. Request reports in advance: You are entitled to receive evaluation reports before the meeting, not at it. Ask for them several days ahead.
  4. Bring a support person: You can bring a spouse, friend, advocate, or parent mentor. You don't have to attend alone.
  5. Prepare your questions: Write them down. It's easy to forget in the moment.

Common Questions to Ask at an IEP Meeting

  • How was this goal chosen, and how will progress be measured?
  • How many minutes per week of each service will my child receive?
  • Who will be delivering each service, and what are their qualifications?
  • How will my child be included with general education peers?
  • What accommodations will be in place during testing?
  • How and when will I receive progress updates?

Understanding Inclusion

Inclusion means educating children with disabilities alongside their non-disabled peers in general education classrooms, with appropriate supports. Research consistently shows that inclusive settings benefit children with Down syndrome — academically, socially, and in terms of long-term outcomes. It also benefits their typical peers.

If the school team recommends a separate special education classroom as the primary placement, you have the right to ask why inclusion with support wasn't considered first. The burden of proof for a more restrictive setting lies with the school.

Your Rights as a Parent

  • You must provide written, informed consent before evaluations or initial services begin
  • You can request an IEP meeting at any time — you don't have to wait for the annual review
  • You can disagree with the IEP and request mediation or a due process hearing
  • You can request an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) at school expense if you disagree with the school's evaluation
  • All records related to your child's education are available to you upon request

Building a Collaborative Relationship

While it's essential to know your rights, the most effective IEP relationships are collaborative ones. Teachers and specialists who feel respected and heard tend to go above and beyond for their students. Come to meetings as a partner — firm in your child's needs, but genuinely open to the expertise of the team. Together, you can build something truly meaningful for your child's future.